Gemütlich

ɡəˈmo͞otlik

Adjective

  • Pleasant and cheerful.

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Example Sentences

“The weekly dinner party had a gemütlich, easygoing vibe.”

“Steven was known in his friend group for having the most gemütlich demeanor.”

“As the conference host, she maintained a gemütlich attitude as she welcomed the guests warmly.”

Word Origin

German, mid-19th century

Why this word?

There is no single word in English that is a direct translation of “gemütlich.” The loanword comes from the Middle High German “gemüetlich,” meaning “pleasant.” Even though it’s often likened to “cozy,” that one word lacks the elements of belonging and friendliness intrinsic to the term. “Gemütlich” in its German usage is similar to the Norwegian concept of “hygge” — it describes a vibe, rather than a specific attribute.

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eˌpeksəˈjēsis